THE DIA Lab project in Jamaica recently had an engagement event for the programme, which has empowered young innovators and entrepreneurs to develop low-cost, high-impact solutions and livelihood opportunities for their communities.

The programme is supported by the Citi Foundation’s Pathways to Progress initiative, and representatives from Citi, Trust for the Americas and Institute of Law and Economics, The LASCO Foundation, and Organization of American States, along with four outstanding programme participants, attended the event at the LASCO Foundation headquarters.

The event highlighted the young entrepreneurs who have benefited from the initiative designed to foster innovation, provide business development training, and equip young Jamaicans with the tools needed to succeed.

“Every time I participate in sessions with DIA Lab, I always leave with hope. I leave inspired, and I can’t tell you how happy I am to see the sustainability of the project, as well as the continued perseverance and motivation of our young people here in Jamaica,” said Jamaica’s Citi Country Officer Eva Lewis.

Expressing her admiration for the programme’s impact and its ability to sustain the entrepreneurial spirit of Jamaica’s youth, she commended the dedication of the DIA Lab participants and congratulated the entrepreneurs who showcased their businesses, noting their passion and dedication to making an impact.

DIA Lab has programmes in Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, and the Dominican Republic. In 2016, the first DIA Lab was launched in Jamaica, and since then, through partners The Trust for the Americas and the Institute of Law and Economics, the programme has achieved significant milestones across the three countries.

Over 9,500 young people have benefited from DIA Lab’s training and awareness activities, more than 860 participants have started or strengthened their social or business entrepreneurship projects and approximately 471 participants have received funding for their innovative projects or ventures through the programme’s emblematic Pitch Tank competitions.

The results demonstrate how innovative solutions can drive inclusion and resilience, ultimately building a more sustainable society.

Chairman, James ED Rawle, representing the LASCO Foundation as new DIA Lab funding partners, emphasised the importance of continued investment in youth entrepreneurship.

“The LASCO Foundation is proud to support initiatives like the DIA Lab programme that provides young entrepreneurs with the skills and resources they need to succeed. We firmly believe that investing in youth innovation is investing in Jamaica’s future, and we remain committed to nurturing the next generation of business leaders,” said Rawle.